First of all, I need to be real. I'm in a bad mood today. Like BAD. I think it's because my little one was coughing a lot last night so I didn't sleep well because I was worrying about her. That, combined with the fact that I am almost 7 months pregnant which means I have very little control over my emotions at times = bad mood. The good news is that a co-worker is on her way to my office with fries and a chocolate shake (healthy lunch, I know) and I'm hoping it contains a magical cure for the grumps.
Now that I've addressed my mood, I have a question for you. I know you are out there, silent as you may be. Please come out of hiding and leave me some advice - did I mention I need a little love today? To party or not to party, that is the question...
My little one turns 2 in July. I realize that it's over 5 months away but the Type A planner who's about to have a baby needs a plan. Should we have a party? We had family parties for her 1st and it was perfect. We celebrated with the people who love her most, didn't spend a ton of money, and created happy memories without worrying about nap times or meltdowns. We've been thinking all along we'd do a party for her second birthday but now we're not so sure. Since it's mid-July it will be HOT so we need either an indoor venue or water. We can't do our house due to space (and who wants to house full of 2 year olds - something's bound to get broken!) and I think she's too little for a party at one of those gym/bounce house places. There are a couple of alternatives (Children's Museum, etc) but we'd end up spending a lot with rental fees and food. Is it worth it? Or should we do something at the park and just make the adults just sweat? The beach? Just do a family celebration again?
I love party planning but part of the problem is that I have high expectations. I want everything fancy or coordinated (this is why I need a plan early). Do you think she's too young for a tea party at The Ritz? (I kid!! for now at least, give me 5 years and we're so there)
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
To party or not to party ...
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8 comments:
We followed the rule of family only parties until they were three. So much easier and no pressure to perform, share with other children, respond appropriately, etc. Then we went to the rule of have the number of friends that the child is turning. When they were three they had three friends (plus the child and by then any siblings). Worked well and helped keep chaos down. I have been to 2 year old birthday parties where the invited guests had melt downs because, after all, they were two-year olds and didn't understand what was going on. Too much chaos in my opinion and this is from a mother who raised four! You will have a lifetime of parties for your children, trust me!
Thanks Kathy - I love that idea! Very practical and also a good way to keep from going overboard. You're one smart lady, smarts (and beauty) must run in our family ;)
Ha! Great minds think alike! I always had the rule of family until 4 and then we did the same thing...turning 4, 4 friends. It really made a difference. So important to keep it all "age appropriate", as I've seen so many parties for "impressing the adults" and not considering the kids! My boys mainly did family with a few friends and it was always enjoyable for all concerned. Mine LOVED Chuckie Cheese ages 4-7, but they were boys! Not sure if that is even still around and doesn't sound as "glamorous" as your ideas. Focus on HER and remember you will be doing all this times 2 soon! :) Are we opinionated or what? LOL
Cut yourself some slack! You'll have a 2 year old and a newborn. Keep it simple with a family party. A less stressful party will probably also be better for Addison since this will be a time of major life changes for her.
I hope you're in a better mood and that the fries and chocolate shake were magical.
I have no advice on the party thing. I am not a huge fan of the "kid party", maybe that is because we have enough family that just them all showing up stresses me out....haha.
But I would say to do whatever you feel will make a nice memory and a happy, stress free day for you. Addison will love it no matter what. You can use your type A planner energy for a much needed mommy night out after baby #2 shows up.
Sounds unanimous... family party is perfect. That means I'm invited...haBeee!
Here's my opinion... I would do a family party, because who understands in the middle of cake when the newborn is hungry and you have to disappear? THEY DO! Not to mention, after the whole thing is over and you are exhausted, they will watch the children! :) uh hem! (Pick me!) Here's my other tid bit of opinion. Type A planner- start planning her 2 year photo shoot now. Set up a super cute backdrop and accessories and do it up big. A party only lasts 3 hours, photos last a lifetime. :)
We did family only parties the first few years for the girls and they were wonderful AND not expensive and we had them at home.
Remember that once they start school the party brigade begins! (Especially for kindergarten and first grade...with my 3rd grader they have slowed.)
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